When to see your doctor about menopause and hair loss

If you think that your hair loss may be caused by vitamin deficiency, talk to your doctor. Iron deficiency is linked to hair loss, but it’s essential to talk to your doctor before self-prescribing as too much iron can be toxic. Get a proper diagnosis from a doctor, dermatologist or trichologist (www.trichologists.org.uk).

FeverYes, fever can spell hair loss. If you have had a fever over 32c, hair follicles may temporarily shut down as your body fights the infection. You may not realise as you won’t see any hair loss for about two to three months following your illness.

And then there’s always HRT … For most women HRT improves hair thickness and quality. Some women report an increase in hair loss when using HRT, possibly due to the type of progesterone in some HRT preparations. It could be worth checking with your doctor if any proposed HRT could cause hair loss as a side effect.

The usual caveat here that there are pros and cons to taking HRT. See our vlog, What Is HRT? We don’t take a view that’s for you to decide in consultation with your doctor.